ALEX McLeish has admitted that not only does he want to add more quality to his squad, but depth as well.

Compared to most Premier League clubs, Blues remain light on numbers.

“Depth-wise, it’s something we need to look at, yes,” he said. “We lacked a bit of depth last year as well, if key men got injured. We were lucky – touch wood – and hopefully we don’t get injuries this season as well. Losing key men is vital to a club like ours.

“It was vital for a club like Arsenal when they lost Van Persie. They were going great guns and when he dropped out they started to have dodgy results.

“It stands to reason if we lose a key player it could be tough. That is why we are trying to make the squad stronger in depth, as well as add to the quality.”

After losing out on Moussa Dembele to Fulham, McLeish wasted no time in trying to secure alternatives.

Blues are in talks about a loan deal for Matt Derbyshire with his Greek club Olympiakos.

The 24-year-old has been told he is surplus to requirements this season and McLeish was quick to move.

Derbyshire left Blackburn Rovers for Olympiakos on loan in January 2009 and made such an impact he earned a permanent move.

After their shock Europa League exit last week, Ernesto Valverde was appointed new coach and Derbyshire became a casualty of his shake-up.

Blues have also been tipped to make a new bid for Liverpool’s Ryan Babel, who was a January option.